The government of Australia said on Sunday that it is reviewing requests to help protect countries attacked by Iran amid the expanding Middle East conflict. However, officials reiterated that Australia will not participate in any military operations inside Iran.

Foreign Minister Penny Wong stated that several non-participating nations have been targeted in attacks linked to the conflict and have sought assistance.

“We have received requests for help, and we will carefully assess them,” she said in televised remarks.

Australia, a close ally of the United States, has previously confirmed it will not deploy troops to the Middle East if the situation escalates further.

When asked whether Australia could assist in protecting nations from drone and missile attacks originating from Iran, Wong responded affirmatively but stressed that any support would not involve offensive military action.

“We will act in line with our position — we are not participating in offensive operations against Iran, and we will not send ground troops,” she added.

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese confirmed on Friday that three Australian defence personnel were aboard a U.S. submarine that sank an Iranian warship in the Indian Ocean using a torpedo. He clarified, however, that the personnel were not involved in the operation.

The Middle East conflict has intensified in recent days, with U.S. and Israeli forces launching airstrikes in Iran. Several Gulf cities, including those in the United Arab Emirates and Qatar, have also reported missile and drone attacks.

Australia is currently coordinating with airlines to assist thousands of its citizens who remain stranded in the region.